That’s the headline The reality? Twenty protesters gather At the air base’s front gate Shout slogans, Shake fists, Then hop the bus and stop For burgers at McDonald’s. Politicians in Naha Do the dance of the outraged And make plans for more Gomen money from Tokyo. Maybe they’ll use it To pave another road to nowhere. My neighbor, Eizo, Descended from kings, Walks into Paul’s pad Outraged. Outraged the gaijins Who rent his cabins Don’t appreciate his favorite beer. “Budweiser number one! Budweiser ichiban!” He shouts. Paul, an Irishman from London, laughs, “Bud number ten!” he shouts And offers the King of Iha, Standing there barefoot in a white tee-shirt and blue work pants, His glass of Guinness. “Slante,’” Paul toasts. “Drink this.” “No, no,” Eizo laughs. “No good.” They compromise with glasses Of Okinawa awamori over iceAnother international dispute settled.

Cabin Serendip, Okinawa Summer 2001

My second book of poetry, “(more)’ is now available on Amazon Kindle. The paperback edition is also available. If you want a signed copy, email me at david@davidallen.nu. Order your copy today! I am like most poets — poor.